G Adventures
Australia and New Zealand: Surfing Waves & The Whitsundays
Australia and New Zealand: Surfing Waves & The Whitsundays
Get ready to dive into a coast lover’s dream down under. This 25-day adventure is packed with so much water time, you might want to bring a few extra swimsuits. Start in New Zealand’s North Island, where you’ll surf, kayak, and cruise Lake Taupo. Then, hop over to Australia and journey from sunny Sydney to Cairns. Perfect your surf skills at camp, cruise through the Whitsundays, and spend a night with Indigenous hosts on K’gari (Fraser Island). When you’re finally out of the water, kick back with a cold one and toast to new friends and epic memories.
Highlights
Adventure through the best of New Zealand’s North Island, Explore the seaside city of Sydney, Experience indigenous Australian culture in K’gari.
Accommodation
Hostels (22 nts, multi-share with 4-6 people), overnight train (1 nt).
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
Group Size Notes
Max 20, avg 16
Meals Included
9 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners
What’s Included
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment – Meet Your CEO and Group
Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
Your Hands-On Moment: Surf Lesson, Raglan
Your Big Night Out Moment: Wellington
Your Hands-On Moment: Surfing Lesson, Spot X
Your Discover Moment: Byron Bay
Your Discover Moment: Cairns
Your Big Night Out Moment: Cairns. Lake Taupo Sailboat Trip (Lake Taupo). Sea kayaking excursion (Raglan). Surf lesson in Raglan. Maori cultural experience. Free time in Sydney, Sydney orientation walk. Beach time in Byron Bay. Kangaroo trek. K’gari overnight experience. K’gari Welcome Ceremony. 4×4 Adventure on K’gari. Whitsunday full day sailing excursion. Whitehaven Beach visit. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
| Day 1 |
A veritable paradise on Earth, Auckland combines the best of both worlds – a thrilling urban metropolis surrounded by striking natural areas, sparkling blue water, and colorful wildlife. New Zealand’s cultural and recreational hub, beautiful Auckland has something for everyone. Museums, art galleries, and other culture-rich sites abound near Auckland’s city center. History buffs will appreciate the Auckland War Memorial Museum or the New Zealand Maritime Museum on Viaduct Harbour, while art enthusiasts will relish in the vast art collections housed at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki. Be sure to peruse the famous Maori Portraits exhibit, a display featuring powerful portraits of the Maori peoples indigenous to New Zealand and Polynesia. You won’t have to venture far from the city to experience some of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders! Rugged Rangitoto Island is perfect for hikes, surrounded with stunning volcanic rock and lava fields, and provides a spectacular vantage point to observe Auckland across the harbor. Maungawhau, or Mount Eden, is another of the city’s volcanic wonders; its verdant crater is a sight to behold and remains one of Auckland’s most visited attractions. Head to Waiheke Island to visit Tiritiri Matangi Open Sanctuary, a protected wildlife sanctuary where some of New Zealand’s most eye-catching fauna roam, or hit the beaches of Waitakere Ranges Regional Park to take in the glittering ocean views and soak up some sun. Travel two hours south to marvel at New Zealand’s rolling green hills when you explore the immersive set for The Shire, the fictional village from the ever-popular Lord of the Rings novels and film franchise. Auckland, New Zealand awaits you! |
| Day 2 |
A veritable paradise on Earth, Auckland combines the best of both worlds – a thrilling urban metropolis surrounded by striking natural areas, sparkling blue water, and colorful wildlife. New Zealand’s cultural and recreational hub, beautiful Auckland has something for everyone. Museums, art galleries, and other culture-rich sites abound near Auckland’s city center. History buffs will appreciate the Auckland War Memorial Museum or the New Zealand Maritime Museum on Viaduct Harbour, while art enthusiasts will relish in the vast art collections housed at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki. Be sure to peruse the famous Maori Portraits exhibit, a display featuring powerful portraits of the Maori peoples indigenous to New Zealand and Polynesia. You won’t have to venture far from the city to experience some of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders! Rugged Rangitoto Island is perfect for hikes, surrounded with stunning volcanic rock and lava fields, and provides a spectacular vantage point to observe Auckland across the harbor. Maungawhau, or Mount Eden, is another of the city’s volcanic wonders; its verdant crater is a sight to behold and remains one of Auckland’s most visited attractions. Head to Waiheke Island to visit Tiritiri Matangi Open Sanctuary, a protected wildlife sanctuary where some of New Zealand’s most eye-catching fauna roam, or hit the beaches of Waitakere Ranges Regional Park to take in the glittering ocean views and soak up some sun. Travel two hours south to marvel at New Zealand’s rolling green hills when you explore the immersive set for The Shire, the fictional village from the ever-popular Lord of the Rings novels and film franchise. Auckland, New Zealand awaits you! |
| Day 3 |
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| Day 4 |
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| Day 5 |
Natural wonders await you in the steaming, geothermally active North Island city of Rotorua, New Zealand. Pohutu Geyser erupts several times per day, and blistering mud pools provide a truly unique sightseeing experience. When in Rotorua, tourists also visit its living Maori village, as well as Te Puia (New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts institute), where weaving and woodcarving is featured. Those not afraid of heights can get a bird's eye view on the Skyline Rotorua gondola, and more earthbound souls can reinvigorate themselves at the Polynesian Spa wellness center, with its hot pools and therapies. |
| Day 6 |
Lake Taupo, New Zealand offers a premier trout fishing experience. The famed sight fishing for large Brown & Rainbow trout is arguably the finest in the world. Located New Zealand's North Island, Lake Taupo is an all year round sight fishing destination. Surrounded by high country lakes, rivers and mountain streams, the spectacular New Zealand scenery is sure to amaze. |
| Day 7 |
On Cook Strait sits Wellington, New Zealand's charming windy city. Must-sees here include the waterfront, the lovely beaches, and the Wellington Cable Car that takes riders to botanical gardens. For cultural exposure, visit The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, with its Maori national treasures and art gallery. Wellington Zoo is another key attraction, and features Tahi, a one-legged kiwi, as its mascot. |
| Day 8 |
Sydney, Australia's iconic harbor city, is a dazzling blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. At the heart of its allure is the world-renowned Sydney Opera House, an architectural marvel that hosts an array of performances from opera to contemporary music. Its distinctive sail-like design makes it one of the most photographed buildings in the world. A tour of the Opera House offers insights into its fascinating history and architectural innovations. Nearby, the Sydney Harbour Bridge provides a thrilling experience for adventure seekers. Visitors can climb to the top of this steel giant for panoramic views of the city and harbor, a breathtaking way to appreciate Sydney’s spectacular waterfront. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, a walk across the bridge offers equally stunning vistas. Sydney's beaches are legendary, with Bondi Beach standing out as a must-visit destination. Known for its golden sands and surf culture, Bondi is perfect for a day of sunbathing or taking a dip in the Pacific. The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk offers scenic views of the rugged coastline and is a great way to explore other beautiful beaches along the way. Fun fact: Sydney's Taronga Zoo is unique for its conservation efforts and its stunning location overlooking Sydney Harbour. It's one of the few zoos in the world where you can see animals while enjoying views of the iconic skyline. |
| Day 9 |
Sydney, Australia's iconic harbor city, is a dazzling blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. At the heart of its allure is the world-renowned Sydney Opera House, an architectural marvel that hosts an array of performances from opera to contemporary music. Its distinctive sail-like design makes it one of the most photographed buildings in the world. A tour of the Opera House offers insights into its fascinating history and architectural innovations. Nearby, the Sydney Harbour Bridge provides a thrilling experience for adventure seekers. Visitors can climb to the top of this steel giant for panoramic views of the city and harbor, a breathtaking way to appreciate Sydney’s spectacular waterfront. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, a walk across the bridge offers equally stunning vistas. Sydney's beaches are legendary, with Bondi Beach standing out as a must-visit destination. Known for its golden sands and surf culture, Bondi is perfect for a day of sunbathing or taking a dip in the Pacific. The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk offers scenic views of the rugged coastline and is a great way to explore other beautiful beaches along the way. Fun fact: Sydney's Taronga Zoo is unique for its conservation efforts and its stunning location overlooking Sydney Harbour. It's one of the few zoos in the world where you can see animals while enjoying views of the iconic skyline. |
| Day 10 |
Sydney, Australia's iconic harbor city, is a dazzling blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. At the heart of its allure is the world-renowned Sydney Opera House, an architectural marvel that hosts an array of performances from opera to contemporary music. Its distinctive sail-like design makes it one of the most photographed buildings in the world. A tour of the Opera House offers insights into its fascinating history and architectural innovations. Nearby, the Sydney Harbour Bridge provides a thrilling experience for adventure seekers. Visitors can climb to the top of this steel giant for panoramic views of the city and harbor, a breathtaking way to appreciate Sydney’s spectacular waterfront. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, a walk across the bridge offers equally stunning vistas. Sydney's beaches are legendary, with Bondi Beach standing out as a must-visit destination. Known for its golden sands and surf culture, Bondi is perfect for a day of sunbathing or taking a dip in the Pacific. The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk offers scenic views of the rugged coastline and is a great way to explore other beautiful beaches along the way. Fun fact: Sydney's Taronga Zoo is unique for its conservation efforts and its stunning location overlooking Sydney Harbour. It's one of the few zoos in the world where you can see animals while enjoying views of the iconic skyline. |
| Day 11 |
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| Day 12 |
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| Day 13 |
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| Day 14 |
If you are looking for a great surfing spot along the east coast or just a pleasant beach to sit down and relax then Byron Bay could be the place for you. Byron Bays unique and colourful town attracts many visitors to the area, so be prepared for congestion especially in the summer months. But it is definitely worth visiting Byron.
Byron Bay has plenty of cafes and bars as well as some great music venues. And of course surf shops which sell surf products as well as hire boards and give surfing lessons. If you want a change of scenery then all you have to do is head inland towards the hinterland and nearby bush. There are a wide range of activities to keep you amused. |
| Day 15 |
If you are looking for a great surfing spot along the east coast or just a pleasant beach to sit down and relax then Byron Bay could be the place for you. Byron Bays unique and colourful town attracts many visitors to the area, so be prepared for congestion especially in the summer months. But it is definitely worth visiting Byron.
Byron Bay has plenty of cafes and bars as well as some great music venues. And of course surf shops which sell surf products as well as hire boards and give surfing lessons. If you want a change of scenery then all you have to do is head inland towards the hinterland and nearby bush. There are a wide range of activities to keep you amused. |
| Day 16 |
Culture, dining and nightlife are just a few of the reasons to find yourself in sunny Brisbane. This sprawling, constantly-evolving river city is for the young and the young at heart. Shop at the outdoor markets, where you'll find fashion, crafts and produce. Beaches are the order of the day here, too, with North Stradbroke Island and Moreton Island attracting hordes of sunbathers. The more city-adjacent South Bank precinct is a recreational paradise, with beaches, cafes and museums to explore. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the earth's largest koala sanctuary is a Brisbane attraction, as is the famous Story Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the city. With over 280 days of sunshine each year, Brisbane is a warm, welcoming destination for all. |
| Day 17 |
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| Day 18 |
Noosa Heads is located 20 kilometers from Maroochydore Airport. |
| Day 19 |
Located on the coast of Queensland, Australia, Airlie Beach is a favorite stop for cruises along the Great Barrier Reef. This coastal paradise offers spectacular beaches and easy access to the Whitsunday Islands, Conway National Park, and, of course, the Great Barrier Reef. |
| Day 20 |
Located on the coast of Queensland, Australia, Airlie Beach is a favorite stop for cruises along the Great Barrier Reef. This coastal paradise offers spectacular beaches and easy access to the Whitsunday Islands, Conway National Park, and, of course, the Great Barrier Reef. |
| Day 21 |
Located on the coast of Queensland, Australia, Airlie Beach is a favorite stop for cruises along the Great Barrier Reef. This coastal paradise offers spectacular beaches and easy access to the Whitsunday Islands, Conway National Park, and, of course, the Great Barrier Reef. |
| Day 22 |
Located on the coast of Queensland, Australia, Airlie Beach is a favorite stop for cruises along the Great Barrier Reef. This coastal paradise offers spectacular beaches and easy access to the Whitsunday Islands, Conway National Park, and, of course, the Great Barrier Reef. |
| Day 23 |
Cairns is the majestic entrance to Australia's Great Barrier Reef. This warm, tropical destination is located in Far North Queensland. Must-see attractions in Cairns include the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, which educates tourists about indigenous peoples, and restaurant and bar-dotted Cairns Esplanade, which has a lagoon for swimming. Also, Daintree National Park, northwest of Cairns, has beautiful beaches, rainforests and canyons. |
| Day 24 |
Cairns is the majestic entrance to Australia's Great Barrier Reef. This warm, tropical destination is located in Far North Queensland. Must-see attractions in Cairns include the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, which educates tourists about indigenous peoples, and restaurant and bar-dotted Cairns Esplanade, which has a lagoon for swimming. Also, Daintree National Park, northwest of Cairns, has beautiful beaches, rainforests and canyons. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
04/26/25 - 05/10/25 |
Starting At $5,549 |
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|
05/24/25 - 06/16/25 |
Starting At $4,717 |
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|
06/21/25 - 07/14/25 |
Starting At $5,199 |
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|
07/05/25 - 07/28/25 |
Starting At $4,419 |
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|
07/19/25 - 08/02/25 |
Starting At $5,199 |
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|
08/16/25 - 08/30/25 |
Starting At $4,419 |
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|
09/13/25 - 11/29/25 |
Starting At $5,549 |
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|
12/06/25 - 02/21/26 |
Starting At $5,849 |
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|
03/07/26 - 05/23/26 |
Starting At $5,549 |
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|
06/06/26 - 08/29/26 |
Starting At $5,199 |
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|
09/12/26 - 11/28/26 |
Starting At $5,549 |
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|
12/05/26 - 12/19/26 |
Starting At $5,849 |
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Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
